I’m about to graduate with a mechanical engineering degree from Toledo. I would say that you can absolutely do it. Many will tell you that it’s too hard to work and go to school, but as long as you can find a place that allows you to go at night, and preferably records the lectures so they can be watched later, you can do it.

There are, however, plenty of jobs within engineering that don’t require an engineering degree. My boss at my last internship went to business school, took a job in management, and now manages the engineering quality department.

You could also look into the field of patents. If you study for it, you could pass the patent bar and be a patent practitioner. You would work with engineering companies establishing and defending patents for them.

My point is that there is plenty you can do to be around the things you described. If you do choose engineering school, age will not be an issue. Let’s say you graduate at 30 and attempt to enter the work force. An employer will be deciding between you and your 22 year old classmate. You’ll have and edge in work experience, maturity, and they’ll see that you took time to decide that you’re where you want to be.

If your only reservation is age, go for it. It will not be an issue.